In his 2015 Budget speech, whch took longer than any traffic jam will ever take in Malta, Finance Minister Edward Scicluna last Monday referred to many transport-related measures which should contribute positively to the overall traffic situation on the island. Below are some of these measures with my verdict.

1. The implementation of the new public transport system

At the beginning of next year, the new operator will take over the public transport system. The new public transport system will see more routes introduced and an overall improvement in the service of public transport.

Verdict: This news is most welcome and one augurs that this chapter is closed once and for all. Or is it? What with the court order to temporarily stop the transport authorities from entering into any contracts or agreements with the Spanish company Autobuses de Leon to run the bus service? It seems the saga does indeed go on. That bus fares will remain untouched is also welcome.

2. Incentive for parents to use school or scheduled transport

The government wants to incentivise the use of school and scheduled transport by parents whose children attend private schools. These parents will be eligible for a tax credit on part of transport charges, up to a maximum of €150, if they use school or scheduled transport.

Verdict: I had proposed this in my editorial last month. This is a welcome measure, but the tax credit is low and I doubt whether it would take off. At least it’s a start. Hopefully subsequent budgets would improve on this. I truly believe it could have a direct positive impact on traffic management.

3. Pedelec bicycles

The government will continue to incentivise the use of altern-ative transport. Another means of transport is the use of mechanised bicycles, better known as pedelec bicycles. As a first step, the government will grant a sum equivalent to 15.25 per cent of the cost of this category of bicycles during 2015.

Verdict: Another measure I had proposed. I cringe to see all those cars parked at the university. Imagine if, instead of all those cars, university students were to use pedelec bicycles. Again, it’s a good start, but not enough. Need to build on it too.

4. Car pooling

The government will be launching an incentive for people who are willing to start travelling together by opening bus lanes to those cars which are carrying three or more passengers.

Verdict: Will not have any effect on traffic. If there’s no fiscal incentive, it will never work.

5. Traffic management systems using cameras

The government will be investing in a system called the Intelligent Traffic Management System. Through strategically-placed cameras and messages displayed on screens, drivers will be better guided on how to avoid traffic hold-ups. The system will also be able to adjust traffic lights automatically according to the volumes of traffic.

Verdict: Total and utter waste of time and money. There are no alternatives to the main traffic hold-ups, so essentially the system will tell drivers what they already know – that they are stuck in traffic.

6. Pilot project to promote greater use of bicycles

Another government initiative is a pilot project intended to promote greater use of bicycles. Therefore, a number of bicycle tracks will be installed around Valletta to promote ‘green transport’ in the city.

Verdict: Mixed feelings. Although bicycles are an alternative, our hilly landscape and narrow roads will never permit an efficient use of bicycles. As to this pilot project, I do not think there is any need for bicycles in Valletta.

Overall verdict: The budget has some good ideas, albeit disjointed, which need to be put together into a cunning plan of action.

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